For many people Los Angeles is about celebrity spotting, having a selfie with the star of your favorite actor on Hollywood Boulevard or spending a lot of time on one of its many beaches. But above everything, Los Angeles is a great city to have the time of your life. Many great activities are awaiting you and here are the 5 you will not want to miss.
Santa Monica Pier
You cannot visit Los Angeles without spending a day at the famous Santa Monica Pier and beach. After frolicking in the sand head up to the pier for an array of carnival rides, restaurants and an aquarium. If you visit during the summer check out the Santa Monica calendar of events, as they regularly have free shows and concerts.
Griffith Park by Night
During the day the views from Griffith Park are spectacular. However, once the sun sets the city really comes alive. Admiring the city lights from the open space of the observatory, after a healthy walk through Griffith Park is an incredible experience. If you want to see the Hollywood sign arrive before dark, otherwise it will be practically invisible, as it is not lit up at night.
To add something special to the experience take a picnic with a selection of yummy California Donuts, along with a telescope.
Handy Tip: Avoid this activity Friday – Sunday night as it gets crowded.
Hollywood Bowl
Add the legendary landmark that is the Hollywood Bowl, to your itinerary of fun for Los Angeles. It has been showing entertaining shows since 1920 and has become an icon of the city. Book tickets to see any great performer(s) as the atmosphere will be electric.
If your favorite artist isn’t playing the Bowl, while you visit don’t panic. The Hollywood Bowl is free to enter during the day, so you can still experience its magnificence. You’re not allowed to go onstage and give the best air guitar display ever. But, you can run up and down the famous steps, have a quiet lunch with great views. If you’re lucky you’ll see a band rehearsing for an upcoming show.
Theme Parks
Los Angeles has Universal Studios and the original Disney theme park. But which do you choose? If you don’t have time for both think about which is going to be most fun for you. If you grew up adoring all things Disney, like the princesses, animal characters and the infectious sing-a-long songs then pay a visit to Disneyland Resort. It is less than 30 miles from LA city centre. It is a magical place, with fun rides and excellent shows.
On the other hand, is Universal Studios. It has many great thrill-seeking rides, which will have your adrenaline pumping and leave you with a sore throat as you scream on and off all day. If you love big rollercoasters and movie theme tunes, this is the one for you. While it is closer than Disney is to Los Angeles, due to heavy traffic, the journey time is similar.
Great Tip: Purchase your tickets online or by contacting a travel agency in advance for better prices and cheeky benefits, like entering the park early.
Hollywood Museum in the Max Factor Building
Science and art museums are found in various cities throughout the World. While portraits, demonstrations and interactive exhibits are enjoyable, when you visit Los Angeles you must visit the museum dedicated to the glamour of tinsel town. Spare an afternoon to explore the history and spectacle that is the Hollywood entertainment industry. Discover the treasures of the silent movie era to today’s blockbuster films and everything in-between.
Which one of these 5 fun activities is most appealing to you? With many more exciting things to do, Los Angeles has become a holiday destination to rival the best.